Just heard from a friend there that at last Australia is changing it's e-bike law from the 200 watt limit, which was strictly enforced, to the EU standard of 250 watts and 25 kph. This will open up their market for a much wider range of e-bikes to be imported. Since Australia has the lowest cycling rate in the world, hopefully this change will help to give a boost to it. Existing bikes will be able to continue in use, but all new bikes marketed will be pedelec machines, no more independent throttles as in Europe:
Govt media release copied below:
New Rules Give Cyclists a Boost.
CK013/2012. 30 May 2012
The Gillard Government today paved the way for a new range of electric
bicycles into Australia.
Parliamentary Secretary for Infrastructure and Transport, Catherine King,
announced changes to the national vehicle safety standards that allow for
greater consumer choice—while at the same time maintaining safety.
“There is an increasing desire within the community for modern designs of
power-assisted pedal cycles. This change in the Australian Design Rules
will encourage modern electric bicycles as a healthy alternative to other
means of transport,” Ms King said.
“With the National Cycling Strategy 2011–16 aiming to double the number of
people riding by 2016, the Government is keen to work with the cycling
community to implement reforms that promote healthy lifestyles.
Ms King said that changes to the standard mean the allowable power output
has now increased from 200 to 250 watts giving a higher level or
performance, while maintaining safety by restricting powered speed to 25
km/h. Riders are required to pedal to access the power or to reach greater
speeds than 25 km/h.
The change also means new construction standards for batteries, cables and
connections as well as other requirements such as braking performance and
the strength of frames.
“In addition, existing designs of machines will continue to be allowed.”
The changes are an important first step towards an overall review by
Austroads of alternative vehicles, which would also include mobility
scooters, and a key action identified in Australia's National Road Safety
Strategy 2011–20.
“It's important that this continues to be a national process that is
supported by all governments,” Ms King said.
Ms King praised state and territory authorities for working constructively
with the Commonwealth on this change.
However, she said that changes to state and territory road rules may be
necessary to allow use of the new electric bicycles and advised people to
contact their state road authorities to confirm local provisions.
The standard that has now been adopted is EN 15194.
.
Govt media release copied below:
New Rules Give Cyclists a Boost.
CK013/2012. 30 May 2012
The Gillard Government today paved the way for a new range of electric
bicycles into Australia.
Parliamentary Secretary for Infrastructure and Transport, Catherine King,
announced changes to the national vehicle safety standards that allow for
greater consumer choice—while at the same time maintaining safety.
“There is an increasing desire within the community for modern designs of
power-assisted pedal cycles. This change in the Australian Design Rules
will encourage modern electric bicycles as a healthy alternative to other
means of transport,” Ms King said.
“With the National Cycling Strategy 2011–16 aiming to double the number of
people riding by 2016, the Government is keen to work with the cycling
community to implement reforms that promote healthy lifestyles.
Ms King said that changes to the standard mean the allowable power output
has now increased from 200 to 250 watts giving a higher level or
performance, while maintaining safety by restricting powered speed to 25
km/h. Riders are required to pedal to access the power or to reach greater
speeds than 25 km/h.
The change also means new construction standards for batteries, cables and
connections as well as other requirements such as braking performance and
the strength of frames.
“In addition, existing designs of machines will continue to be allowed.”
The changes are an important first step towards an overall review by
Austroads of alternative vehicles, which would also include mobility
scooters, and a key action identified in Australia's National Road Safety
Strategy 2011–20.
“It's important that this continues to be a national process that is
supported by all governments,” Ms King said.
Ms King praised state and territory authorities for working constructively
with the Commonwealth on this change.
However, she said that changes to state and territory road rules may be
necessary to allow use of the new electric bicycles and advised people to
contact their state road authorities to confirm local provisions.
The standard that has now been adopted is EN 15194.
.
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